Summaries of books about Science & Math:
Culinary Reactions
The Everyday Chemistry of Cooking
Simon Quellen Field
The book explores the science behind cooking processes and ingredients, explaining how chemical reactions affect the outcome of recipes. It delves into topics such as the role of acids and bases, the science of taste, and the molecular transformations that occur during heating and mixing.
See full summary
The Fabric of Reality
The Science of Parallel Universes--and Its Implications
David Deutsch
The book explores the concept of a multiverse and the interconnectedness of four main strands of scientific theory: quantum physics, epistemology, the theory of computation, and the theory of evolution. It argues for a deeper understanding of reality through the synthesis of these ideas, suggesting that parallel universes are not just speculative but have real implications for our understanding of the world.
See full summary
Life's Edge
The Search for What It Means to Be Alive
Carl Zimmer
The book explores the complex question of what it means to be alive, delving into the history of science and philosophy to examine the elusive definition of life. It presents a range of perspectives from biologists, researchers, and thinkers, along with intriguing examples of life's edge cases, such as viruses and artificial life.
See full summary
Biomimicry
Innovation Inspired by Nature
Janine M. Benyus
The book explores how scientists and inventors are turning to nature's designs and processes to inspire sustainable solutions to modern challenges. It presents case studies and examples where mimicking the strategies of organisms and ecosystems leads to innovative advancements in fields such as agriculture, medicine, and technology.
See full summary
The Ancestor's Tale
A Pilgrimage to the Dawn of Evolution
Richard Dawkins
The book presents a reverse-chronological journey through biological evolution, tracing the lineage of humans back to the origins of life. Along the way, it explores the shared ancestors of various species, recounting evolutionary tales and the scientific evidence that reveals our connections to all living things.
See full summary
Memoirs of an Addicted Brain
A Neuroscientist Examines his Former Life on Drugs
Marc Lewis
The book intertwines personal narrative with scientific explanation, detailing the author's journey through drug addiction from his youth into adulthood, while offering insights into how various substances interact with the brain to produce their potent effects. It provides a unique perspective by combining the subjective experience of addiction with an objective understanding of the neurobiological processes involved.
See full summary
Proust and the Squid
The Story and Science of the Reading Brain
Maryanne Wolf
The book explores the development of the reading brain from a historical and biological perspective, examining how humans have learned to read over millennia and how this process is reflected in brain function. It also delves into the science of dyslexia and the challenges and gifts it presents to individuals as they learn to read.
See full summary
The Anatomy of Violence
The Biological Roots of Crime
Adrian Raine
The book explores the relationship between biological factors and criminal behavior, examining how genetics, brain structure, and environmental influences can predispose individuals to violence. It delves into neuroscience and psychology research to discuss the potential for predicting and preventing criminal activity through understanding the biological underpinnings of violence.
See full summary
Full-Rip 9.0
The Next Big Earthquake in the Pacific Northwest
Sandi Doughton
The book examines the scientific discovery of the Cascadia subduction zone and the potential for a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami in the Pacific Northwest. It explores the geological history, the risks posed to the region, and the preparedness (or lack thereof) of the communities and infrastructure that could be affected by such a natural disaster.
See full summary
The Ecology Book
Big Ideas Simply Explained
DK
The book presents a comprehensive overview of ecological concepts, theories, and key environmental issues, using accessible language and visual aids. It traces the history of ecological thought, explores the interconnectivity of life on Earth, and discusses the challenges and solutions related to biodiversity, climate change, and conservation efforts.
See full summary